So a few pieces of advice for transitioning Soldiers:

1) start seeing sick call about anything that has been hurting you starting about a year from when you plan to ETS. Don't Soldier thru injuries. You may get called a sick call ranger by your NCOs but they aren't going to help you when the VA denies your disability due to lack of evidence its service related. Don't sham, but get checked out.

2). If enlisted take community College classes using your TA. These classes can be used to fill gen ed requirements in any future college, help fill a resume, and help you decide if a college future is right for you.

3) If you are a mechanic, get your ASE certificates before you ETS. There is a shortage of Auto Mechanics and the pay is pretty good in the field if you have ASE certificates.

4) Have a buddy or relative who never served in the military review your resume. The Transition Assistance office and your fellow service members are not necessarily the best resources.

5) Be realistic about your transition and plan accordingly. Just because you were a top notch team leader doesn't mean businesses are going to be jumping at you for leadership positions. Same goes for Junior Officers who assume six figure jobs after refrad.